Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for May 22, 2016

“Forward Progress” Acts 9:31-43 Bible Study 05/22/16

This morning we turn our attention to a powerful account of the early church’s progress which is rooted in the power of Jesus. After observing the status of the church following Paul’s return to Tarsus, we will examine two key miracles which point to its continuing progress for the glory of God.

I. Observe the Atmosphere (31)

-previously: persecution, violence, scattering…
-now: peace, edification
-moving forward with fear and comfort

II. Note the Progress Connected to a Paralytic’s Healing (32-35)

-from Paul to Peter
-Lydda: Samaritan territory
-Aeneas and paralysis
-correspondence to Luke 5:24
-credit to Jesus
-…and they turned to the Lord.

III. Note the Progress Connected to the Drama of a Dead Woman’s Restoration (36-43)

-Joppa: 10 miles from Lydda
-Tabitha/Dorcas: excels in serving
-death and grief
-…washed…upper room.
-request for Peter
-restoration: correspondence to Luke 8:40-56 and 1 Kings 17:17-24
-…and many believed in the Lord.
-hint of more progress to come: verse 43

IV. So What?

-Because Jesus is the supernatural power source behind the church, trust Him to transform circumstances and transform people.
-Abandon hand-wringing for heart-singing!
-“The church shall never perish! Her dear Lord to defend, To guide, sustain and cherish, Is with her to the end: Though there be those who hate her, And false sons in her pale, Against both foe and traitor, She ever will prevail. Though with a scornful wonder, Men see her sore oppressed, By schisms rent asunder, By heresies distressed: Yet saints their watch are keeping, Their cry goes up, ‘How long?’, And soon the night of weeping, Shall be the morn of song! (Samuel Stone, 1866)
-“This is my Father’s world, Should my heart be ever sad? The Lord is King-let the heavens ring, God reigns-let the earth be glad.” (Maltbie Babcock, 1901)
-Savor the sense of being a part of something that is supernatural and unstoppable!